A Doctorate of Nursing Practice is an advanced degree that focuses on improving service delivery through the application of evidence-based solutions. It can lead to a rewarding career in advanced nursing practice, as well as leadership, education, and public health, to name a few.
Some programs accept BSN graduates, while some are only available to nurses with a Master’s degree. Regardless of your educational attainment, you may complete your DNP coursework online. Here are 33 universities that offer such programs:
Our Editorial Process
Every page on NP Programs is written by a credentialed nurse and reviewed for currency at least annually against source-of-truth directories (CCNE, ACEN, ANCC, AANPCB, NCC, PNCB, AACN). Tuition, credits, accreditation status, certification fees, and salary figures are verified directly from the originating institution or government source (BLS OES, BLS OOH). When information is unverified or contradicts the originating source, the program is flagged in our comparison tables rather than removed. Read our full editorial standards.
| Online DNP Programs Listed | 33 schools across BSN-to-DNP and post-master’s pathways |
| Tuition Range | ~$326–$2,358 per credit · ~$9,500–$98,400 total |
| Typical Completion | 20 months to 4 years depending on entry path |
| Credit Hours Range | 21–86 credits (post-master’s vs. BSN-entry) |
| National NP Median Wage | $129,210 per year (BLS, May 2024) |
| Projected Job Growth | 46% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook) |
| Primary Accreditors | CCNE and ACEN |
2026 Updates
- Western Carolina DNP URL drift: The WCU online DNP program page returned a 404 during our 2026 audit. Status uncertain — may indicate a URL change, program restructure, or closure. Confirm directly with WCU before applying.
- BLS salary update: National NP median wage rose to $129,210 per year (BLS OES, May 2024 data) — a meaningful increase from the 2023 figure cited in earlier listings. DNP-prepared NPs typically earn at the upper end of the range.
- Projected growth holds at 46%: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 46% growth in NP roles from 2023 to 2033 — second-fastest among all occupations.
- GRE-optional remains the norm at the doctoral level: The vast majority of online DNP programs no longer require GRE scores. Three programs on this list (Florida State, UMass-Amherst, UT-Arlington) historically required GRE with waivers — reverify each school’s current admissions page before applying.
- BSN-to-DNP pathways gaining ground: AACN’s 2025 Position Statement reaffirmed the DNP as the preferred entry credential for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Direct BSN-to-DNP tracks are growing as a result, with most programs on this list offering both BSN-to-DNP and post-master’s options.
How We Evaluate Online DNP Programs
Every program profiled on this page meets a baseline set of editorial criteria. Programs that do not meet these criteria are excluded. We update this list on at least an annual basis and check accreditation status against the source-of-truth directories at each refresh.
- Accreditation. The DNP must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
- Documented online or hybrid delivery. Coursework must be substantially online. Programs requiring full-time on-campus residency are excluded; brief on-site intensives or weekend immersions are acceptable and noted in the program overview.
- Both entry paths supported. The program must accept BSN-prepared RNs (BSN-to-DNP) or MSN-prepared RNs (post-master’s DNP). Many programs accept both.
- Specialization or leadership track. The program must offer at least one nurse practitioner specialization (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP, PNP, WHNP, NNP, AGACNP) or an executive nursing leadership track that meets DNP Essentials.
- Transparent program data. Credit hours, clinical hour requirements, and tuition must be publicly published on the school’s official program page or catalog.
- Active state authorization. Online programs must be authorized to enroll students in their target states under SARA or direct state approval.
When information is missing or unverified, the program is flagged in the comparison table rather than removed, with a note to confirm directly with the school.
Featured Online DNP Programs by Editorial Pick
Of the 33 programs covered below, five stand out for distinct reasons. These editorial picks are based on tuition transparency, program flexibility, specialization breadth, and verified delivery model. Full program details for each are in the cards further down the page.
Best Affordable Public: Florida State University
FSU’s DNP is one of the most affordable public-university DNP options on this page for Florida residents, with strong AGPCNP, AGACNP, and DNP-Leadership tracks. Hybrid delivery with periodic on-campus intensives.
Best Compressed Pathway: Maryville University
Maryville’s online DNP runs on accelerated eight-week course modules, finishing the BSN-to-DNP in roughly 40 months full-time. Wide specialty roster including FNP, PMHNP, AGNP, and pediatric tracks.
Best for Working Nurses: Walden University
Walden offers 100% online DNP coursework with multiple intakes per year and clinical placements arranged at the student’s home facility. Tracks include AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP-PC, and PMHNP.
Best Research University: Georgetown University
Georgetown’s online DNP combines high-prestige research credentialing with online flexibility. Two on-campus Objective Clinical Intensives anchor the otherwise online program. Strong FNP and post-master’s pathways.
Best Faith-Based: Liberty University
Liberty’s online DNP integrates biblical principles with advanced practice nursing. FNP and PMHNP tracks available, with online coursework plus on-site intensives. Ranges from $43,435 to $50,700 in total tuition depending on full-time vs part-time pacing.
Baylor University
- Waco, Texas
Credit Hours: 38-75
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,150 per credit for 38-75 credits – $43,700 to $86,250 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Baylor’s online DNP runs from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing in Waco with both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP entry points. NP track options include FNP, NNP, PNP, AGACNP, and PMHNP, with additional specializations in Nurse-Midwifery and Executive Nurse Leadership. US News & World Report has placed Baylor in the top 10% of DNP schools nationally. This school’s NP tracks are also profiled in our guide to no-GRE NP programs.
Bradley University
- Peoria, Illinois
Credit Hours: 32-68
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,090 per credit for 32-68 credits – $34,880 to $74,120 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Bradley’s online DNP runs flexible coursework for working RNs at both BSN and MSN entry points. NP specializations include AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, and PMHNP. The Leadership track is reserved for post-master’s students. Peoria, Illinois supports the program with on-site immersions when needed.
Capella University
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Credit Hours: 52 (quarter credits)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $32,000 (tuition cap) plus other fees
Program Overview:
Capella’s MSN-to-DNP runs in two formats. FlexPath lets students take as many courses as they can complete in 12 weeks at a fixed tuition. GuidedPath delivers 1-3 courses per 10-week quarter on a more structured cadence. The 9-course curriculum plus 4 doctoral projects emphasizes healthcare policy, patient advocacy, and systems reform. This school’s NP tracks are also profiled in our guide to no-GRE NP programs.
Chamberlain University
- Addison, Illinois
Credit Hours: 32-40
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $806 per credit for 32 to 40 credits – $25,792 to $32,240 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Chamberlain’s online MSN-to-DNP runs in cohorts averaging 13 students, with personalized advising and a customized practicum experience. Three elective focus areas are available: Healthcare Systems Leadership, Educational Leadership, and Advanced Practice Leadership. The program is built for working master’s-prepared nurses moving into doctoral-level practice. This school’s NP tracks are also profiled in our guide to no-GRE NP programs.
Creighton University
- Omaha, Nebraska
Credit Hours: 69-74
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,000 per credit for 69-74 credits – $69,000 to $74,000 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Creighton’s high-touch online DNP is grounded in Jesuit principles and offers both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP entry points. Specializations include AGACNP, FNP, NNP, PMHNP, and a dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP track. A Nursing Administration & Leadership concentration is also available. Full-time and part-time pacing accommodate working RNs.
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Credit Hours: 45
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $804 per credit for 45 credits – $36,180 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Drexel’s online DNP admits both BSN graduates and MSN-prepared nurses (in nursing or other fields). The Advanced Clinical Expert track prepares Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Midwives, or Nurse Anesthetists. An Executive/Leadership track is also offered. The 10-week quarter format lets motivated students accelerate their pace.
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, Tennessee
Credit Hours: 82-86
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $772.50 per credit for 82-86 credits – $62,345 to $66,435 plus other fees
Program Overview:
ETSU’s online DNP is ranked in the top 100 nationally by US News & World Report. Tracks include Nursing/Healthcare Leadership and three NP specializations: family, psychiatric/mental health, and adult-gerontology primary care. The 82-86 credit curriculum prepares graduates to address the unique needs of underserved populations across Appalachia and beyond.
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, Florida
Credit Hours: 41-79
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes (waiver available)
Resident tuition: $18,700 to $24,000 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $45,150 to $78,475 plus other fees
Program Overview:
FSU’s DNP is ranked the best in Florida and 26th nationally. Advanced practice tracks are available in FNP, AGACNP, and PMHNP. Beyond the NP options, students may pursue Executive Health Systems Leadership or Lifestyle Medicine. GRE is required but waivable based on academic background. Resident tuition runs $18,700-$24,000; non-resident $45,150-$78,475.
Georgetown University
- Washington DC
Credit Hours: 30
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $2,358 per credit for 30 credits – $70,740 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Georgetown’s distance-based DNP runs 30 credits over 15-week terms. The BSN-to-DNP track finishes in 33 months full-time and leads to FNP, AGACNP, WHNP, or a combined nurse-midwife/WHNP certification. APRN and other master’s-prepared applicants pursue the post-master’s track on a part-time schedule. Tuition is $2,358 per credit, ~$70,740 total.
Hawai’i Pacific University
- Honolulu, Hawaii
Credit Hours: 30 (MSN to DNP), 72-75 (BSN to DNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $30,750 plus other fees (MSN to DNP), $73,800 to $76,875 plus other fees (BSN to DNP)
Program Overview:
HPU’s practice-based online DNP prepares APRNs in family, psychiatric-mental health, or adult-gerontology acute care nursing. The BSN-to-DNP runs 72-75 credits and finishes in about 34 months full-time. The MSN-to-DNP runs 30 credits and finishes in 20 months. Tuition is $30,750 (MSN-DNP) or $73,800-$76,875 (BSN-DNP).
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, Indiana
Credit Hours: 37
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $601 per credit for 37 credits – $22,237 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Indiana State’s post-master’s online DNP is structured for RNs leading change in their healthcare organizations. The 37-credit coursework pairs with a scholarly project and a 1,000-hour clinical requirement (650 of which are waivable for credentialed APRNs). Tuition is $601 per credit, ~$22,237 total — among the most affordable on this list.
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, Virginia
Credit Hours: 41
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $595 per credit for full-time study, $650 per credit for part-time study – $24,395 to $26,650 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Liberty’s online MSN-to-DNP follows a curriculum aligned with AACN’s DNP Essentials. Coursework covers healthcare operations, nursing research, clinical prevention, and population health. The 41-credit program runs $595/credit full-time or $650/credit part-time, with total cost $24,395-$26,650. Faith-based framing distinguishes Liberty from secular DNP options.
Madonna University
- Livonia, Michigan
Credit Hours: 33
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,070 per credit for 33 credits – $35,310 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Madonna’s online MSN-to-DNP is for master’s-prepared nurses seeking the highest level of practice. The 33-credit curriculum focuses on research, financial management, and health policy analysis. NP-specialty tracks are available but require on-campus attendance, so the online version is leadership-focused. Tuition is $1,070 per credit, ~$35,310 total.
Maryville University
- Town and Country, Missouri
Credit Hours: 12-21
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $61,456 – $69,223 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Maryville’s accelerated BSN-to-DNP finishes in 40 months with no required campus visits and three entry points each year. The five concentration tracks cover AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP, and PMHNP — broader specialty coverage than most other BSN-to-DNP programs on this list. Total tuition runs $61,456-$69,223. This school’s NP tracks are also profiled in our guide to no-GRE NP programs.
Monmouth University
- West Long Branch, New Jersey
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,195 per credit for 36 credits – $43,020 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Monmouth’s online MSN-to-DNP prepares master’s-prepared RNs for organizational and systems leadership. Six semesters of didactic coursework cover health economics, policy, and systems leadership. Cohorts launch every summer and fall. The 36-credit program runs $1,195 per credit, ~$43,020 total.
Ohio State University
- Columbus, Ohio
Credit Hours: 36 (post-masters), 72 (BSN to DNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,158 per credit for 36 or 72 credits – $41,688 or $83,376 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Ohio State’s online DNP runs both BSN-to-DNP (72 credits, 3-4 years) and post-master’s (36 credits, 2-3 years) tracks. NP specialty options include FNP, NNP, PMHNP, and Nurse Anesthesia. Coursework is primarily online with some on-campus assessments and projects. Tuition is $1,158 per credit ($41,688 PM or $83,376 BSN-DNP).
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
- Bartlesville, Oklahoma
Credit Hours: 36 (post-masters), 54 (BSN to DNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $20,656 (post-master’s), $44,409 (BSN to DNP)
Program Overview:
Oklahoma Wesleyan’s online DNP runs in two pathways: BSN-DNP for nurses pursuing Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, or Informatics specializations, and a post-master’s Executive Leadership track. Both tracks finish in as little as two years. Total tuition runs $20,656 (post-master’s) or $44,409 (BSN-DNP) — among the most affordable on the page.
Regis University
- Denver, Colorado
Credit Hours: 28-33
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,018 per credit for 28-33 credits – $28,504 to $33,594 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Regis University’s online DNP runs in 8-week terms across 28-33 credits. The APRN component covers family, neonatal, and psychiatric mental health nursing and finishes in 6-9 semesters. Practice hour requirements scale with prior credentials: 600 hours for MSN holders, 1,000 hours for BSN entrants. Tuition is $1,018 per credit.
Spalding University
- Louisville, Kentucky
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $800 per credit for 36 credits – $28,800 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Spalding’s online MSN-to-DNP runs eight-week sessions with rolling admissions, allowing some students to finish in as little as 13 months. The 36-credit curriculum splits into 30 credits of core DNP coursework plus 6 credits of specialty education. Located in Louisville, Kentucky. Tuition is $800 per credit, ~$28,800 total.
Spring Arbor University
- Spring Arbor, Michigan
Credit Hours: n/a
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $859 per credit
Program Overview:
Spring Arbor’s online DNP in Strategic Leadership runs 20 months for MSN-educated nurses. The school’s signature 7-week courses + 1-week breaks let students keep working full-time, with two entry dates per year. Tuition is $859 per credit. Faith-affiliated framing places Spring Arbor alongside Liberty among the Christian-tradition DNP options.
University of Arizona
- Tucson, Arizona
Credit Hours: 35
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,053 per credit for 35 credits – $36,855 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Arizona’s online DNP is ranked in the top 19 nationally by US News & World Report. Specializations include FNP, PNP, PMHNP, Nurse-Midwifery, Nurse-Anesthesiology, and Executive Health Systems Leadership. Coursework mixes online delivery with on-campus intensives and clinical placements in the student’s region. Tuition is $1,053 per credit, ~$36,855 total.
University of Connecticut
- Storrs, Connecticut
Credit Hours: 32-38 (post-masters), 72-82 (BSN to DNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,200 per credit for 32-82 credits – $38,400 to $98,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UConn is ranked top 40 nationally for DNP programs. Both BSN-to-DNP and post-master’s tracks lead to certifications in AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, or NNP. A Nursing Administration & Leadership concentration is also available. Tuition is $1,200 per credit, total $38,400 (post-master’s) to $98,400 (BSN-DNP).
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Lafayette, Louisiana
Credit Hours: 39
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $480 per credit for 39 credits – $18,720 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UL-Lafayette’s post-MSN online DNP focuses on health policy, organizational leadership, and evidence-based practice. The 39-credit program comes with 24/7 online tutoring, a dedicated enrollment specialist, and a student resource center. Tuition is $480 per credit, ~$18,720 total — one of the most affordable post-master’s DNP options on this list.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
- Amherst, Massachusetts
Credit Hours: 63-79
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes (waiver available)
Tuition: $825 per credit for 63-79 credits – $51,975 to $65,175 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UMass Amherst’s online DNP has been recognized by Nursing School Hub as one of the country’s strongest. The post-baccalaureate track supports FNP, PMHNP, and Public Health Nurse Leader concentrations; the post-master’s program is for credentialed APRNs translating research into practice. The 63-79 credit program runs $825/credit, $51,975-$65,175 total. GRE is required but waivable.
University of Nevada-Reno
- Reno, Nevada
Credit Hours: 30 (MSN to DNP), 63-72 (BSN to DNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $810 per credit for 31 credits – $25,920 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UNR’s DNP is open to BSN and MSN holders, with online coursework supplemented by some campus visits for BSN-to-DNP students. NP specializations include AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, and PNP, with additional Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leadership and Clinical Education Leadership tracks. The 30-72 credit program runs $810 per credit.
University of New Hampshire
- Durham, New Hampshire
Credit Hours: 21-33
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $800 per credit for 21-33 credits – $16,800 to $26,400 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $880 per credit for 21-33 credits – $18,480 to $29,040 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UNH’s online MSN-to-DNP runs 18-28 months for master’s-prepared nurses. Courses are 8-week terms, supporting working-nurse schedules. The 1,000 practicum hours include 500 credited from prior MSN coursework. Tuition is $800/credit (resident) or $880/credit (non-resident), $16,800-$29,040 total.
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, North Dakota
Credit Hours: 37
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $815.50 per credit for 37 credits – $30,173.50 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UND’s post-master’s DNP is built for nurses leading healthcare organizations. The 37-credit curriculum covers core nursing practice and leadership topics across five semesters. Lessons are delivered through posted lectures, modules, videos, and online simulations. Tuition is $815.50 per credit, ~$30,174 total.
University of Phoenix
- Phoenix, Arizona
Credit Hours: 31
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $810 per credit for 31 credits – $25,920 plus other fees
Program Overview:
University of Phoenix’s online DNP runs 31 credits across 11 core courses covering healthcare policy and regulation, organizational and systems leadership, and healthcare delivery technology. Application is free of charge. Tuition is $810 per credit, ~$25,920 total — among the lowest on this list. This school’s NP tracks are also profiled in our guide to no-GRE NP programs.
University of Texas at Arlington
- Arlington, Texas
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes (waived for master’s degree holders)
Tuition: $23,760 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UTA’s online DNP is built for credentialed APRNs and master’s-prepared nurses applying evidence-based findings to improve outcomes. Coursework covers research methods, healthcare systems, and policy. Asynchronous accelerated classes with multiple start dates let students finish the 36-credit program in 27-36 months. GRE waived for master’s holders. Total tuition: $23,760.
Walden University
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Credit Hours: 45 (quarter credits)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $37,250 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Walden’s interdisciplinary DNP runs as a team-based program for both BSN and MSN-prepared nurses. NP track options include AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP, and PMHNP, plus a non-clinical Executive Leadership specialization. The Practicum Pledge gives students access to Walden’s national network of practicum sites and preceptors. The 45-quarter-credit program runs ~$37,250 total.
Western Carolina University
- Cullowhee, North Carolina
Credit Hours: 34
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $7,520.28 per term plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $12,879.78 per term plus other fees
Program Overview:
WCU’s online DNP serves credentialed APRNs, nursing administrators, and community health nurses. The 34-credit program emphasizes policy, scholarship, and healthcare innovation. Full-time students finish in 4 semesters; part-time in 7. Resident tuition is $7,520 per term; non-resident $12,880. Note: WCU’s DNP page returned a 404 in our 2026 audit — confirm program status with WCU directly before applying.
Wichita State University
- Wichita, Kansas
Credit Hours: 29
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $326.15 per credit for 29 credits – $9,458.35 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Wichita State’s online MSN-to-DNP (individual/family focus) admits one cohort per year. The 29-credit coursework finishes in 2-3 years. Tuition is $326.15 per credit, ~$9,458 total — the lowest on this list. WSU’s on-campus DNP offers AGACNP, FNP, and PMHNP specializations.
Wilkes University
- Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Credit Hours: 30
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,025 per credit for 30 credits – $30,750 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Wilkes’s accelerated post-master’s online DNP runs less than two years for credentialed nurses. The 30-credit, 10-course curriculum focuses on Nursing Informatics, Biostatistics, and Epidemiology. Required clinical hours scale with prior MSN coursework. Tuition is $1,025 per credit, ~$30,750 total. This school’s NP tracks are also profiled in our guide to no-GRE NP programs.
Online DNP Program Comparison
The 33 programs at a glance — entry path, credit load, GRE policy, and tuition pulled from each school’s published data. Confirm current figures with the school before applying.
| School | Entry Path | Credits | GRE | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 38-75 | No | $1,150/credit · $43.7K–$86.3K |
| Bradley University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 32-68 | No | $1,090/credit · $34.9K–$74.1K |
| Capella University | Post-MSN | 52 (quarter credits) | No | ~$32,000 total (cap) |
| Chamberlain University | Post-MSN | 32-40 | No | $806/credit · $25.8K–$32.2K |
| Creighton University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 69-74 | No | $1,000/credit · $69K–$74K |
| Drexel University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 45 | No | $804/credit · ~$36,180 |
| East Tennessee State | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 82-86 | No | $772.50/credit · $62K–$66K |
| Florida State University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | — | No | $18.7K–$24K (resident); $45.2K–$78.5K (non) |
| Georgetown University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 30 | No | $2,358/credit · ~$70,740 |
| Hawai’i Pacific University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 30 (MSN to DNP), 72-75 (BSN to DNP) | No | $30,750 (MSN-DNP) · $73.8K–$76.9K (BSN-DNP) |
| Indiana State University | Post-MSN | 37 | No | $601/credit · ~$22,237 |
| Liberty University | Post-MSN | 41 | No | $595–$650/credit · $24.4K–$26.7K |
| Madonna University | Post-MSN | 33 | No | $1,070/credit · ~$35,310 |
| Maryville University | BSN-DNP | 12-21 | No | $61.5K–$69.2K total |
| Monmouth University | Post-MSN | 36 | No | $1,195/credit · ~$43,020 |
| Ohio State University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 36 (post-masters), 72 (BSN to DNP) | No | $1,158/credit · $41.7K (PM) or $83.4K (BSN-DNP) |
| Oklahoma Wesleyan | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 36 (post-masters), 54 (BSN to DNP) | No | $20,656 (PM) · $44,409 (BSN-DNP) |
| Regis University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 28-33 | No | $1,018/credit · $28.5K–$33.6K |
| Spalding University | Post-MSN | 36 | No | $800/credit · ~$28,800 |
| Spring Arbor University | Post-MSN | n/a | No | $859/credit |
| U of Arizona | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 35 | No | $1,053/credit · ~$36,855 |
| UConn | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 32-38 (post-masters), 72-82 (BSN to DNP) | No | $1,200/credit · $38.4K–$98.4K |
| UL Lafayette | Post-MSN | 39 | No | $480/credit · ~$18,720 |
| UMass Amherst | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 63-79 | Yes (waiver) | $825/credit · $52K–$65K |
| U of Nevada-Reno | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 30 (MSN to DNP), 63-72 (BSN to DNP) | No | $810/credit · ~$25,920 |
| U of New Hampshire | Post-MSN | 21-33 | No | $800–$880/credit · $16.8K–$29K |
| U of North Dakota | Post-MSN | 37 | No | $815.50/credit · ~$30,174 |
| University of Phoenix | Post-MSN | 31 | No | $810/credit · ~$25,920 |
| UT Arlington | Post-MSN | 36 | Yes (waiver) | ~$23,760 total |
| Walden University | BSN-DNP & Post-MSN | 45 (quarter credits) | No | ~$37,250 total |
| Western Carolina | Post-MSN | — | No | $7.5K (resident) / $12.9K (non) per term |
| Wichita State | Post-MSN | 29 | No | $326.15/credit · ~$9,458 |
| Wilkes University | Post-MSN | 30 | No | $1,025/credit · ~$30,750 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online DNP Programs
Can a DNP really be earned online?
Yes. Most CCNE-accredited DNP programs now run substantially online, with limited on-campus residencies, clinical placements completed in your home community, and asynchronous coursework. A few programs require periodic on-campus intensives (typically 1–3 days per term), which can usually be planned around a working nurse’s schedule.
How long does an online DNP take?
Post-master’s DNP tracks typically take 18 to 30 months at full-time pace and 36 to 48 months part-time. BSN-to-DNP pathways take longer because they include the master’s-level coursework — usually 36 to 48 months full-time, or up to 60 months part-time. Specialty NP coursework (FNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, etc.) adds clinical hours and can extend the timeline.
What’s the difference between BSN-to-DNP and post-master’s DNP?
BSN-to-DNP programs accept students with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and award both the MSN and DNP credentials in a single integrated track (typically 60–90 credits). Post-master’s DNP programs accept students who already hold an MSN and add only the doctoral-level coursework (typically 21–40 credits). Cost and timeline scale accordingly.
Do online DNP programs require the GRE?
The vast majority no longer require GRE scores. Most programs evaluate applicants on cumulative GPA (commonly 3.0+), active RN licensure, professional references, a goal statement, and direct nursing experience. A small number of programs require the GRE but offer waivers for MSN-prepared applicants or those meeting GPA thresholds.
How much do DNP-prepared nurses earn?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median NP wage of $129,210 per year (May 2024 data). DNP-prepared NPs and nurse leaders typically earn at the upper end of that range, especially in acute care, anesthesia (CRNA), and executive nursing roles.
Is a DNP necessary to practice as a nurse practitioner?
Currently no — an MSN is sufficient to sit for NP certification and licensure. However, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing has long advocated for the DNP as the preferred entry credential for advanced practice nursing, and many programs are transitioning their NP tracks to DNP-only. Earning a DNP today future-proofs the credential and opens leadership roles.
What can you do with a DNP?
DNP graduates work as advanced practice nurse practitioners (FNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, PNP, WHNP, NNP), nurse anesthetists (CRNA), nurse-midwives, nurse executives and chief nursing officers, healthcare consultants, nursing faculty, and policy advisors. The clinical and leadership skill set is broader than the MSN-only track and supports both bedside leadership and systems-level work.